(SEPTEMBER 22, 2026) TRI-CITIES The B.C. government has paused its planned expansion of the provincial sales tax (PST) to professional services, a move that will come as welcome news to businesses across the Tri-Cities.
The tax expansion, which was scheduled to take effect October 1, has been put on hold through a temporary regulation. The provincial government has linked the pause to the ongoing trade war and economic uncertainty.
The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce says its members have raised concerns about the proposed expansion, including higher operating costs, additional administrative requirements and the potential impact on local businesses.
“This pause is an important step for businesses that have been concerned about the additional costs and administrative burden associated with the proposed PST expansion,” said the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce CEO, Jennifer McKinnon. “However, a pause is not the same as a permanent solution. We will continue working with the B.C. Chamber and advocating for the expansion to be eliminated, while advancing a broader conversation about a made-in-B.C. value-added tax that supports businesses and strengthens our economy.”
What happens next
While the pause delays the October 1 implementation, it does not permanently cancel the proposed tax expansion.
Businesses with questions about the pause, or those wishing to share how the proposed PST expansion could affect their operations, are encouraged to contact the Chamber’s CEO, Jennifer McKinnon, ceo@tricitieschamber.com.
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Since 1971, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has been the largest business association serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore, and Belcarra, now representing 1,300+ organizations from every sector. The Chamber works to foster economic development, provide connections and benefits, and influence public policy at all levels of government to ensure strong business and strong communities. The Tri-Cities Chamber is an active member of the BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
The Tri-Cities Chamber is an active member of the BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
For more information, contact:
Jennifer McKinnon, Chief Executive Officer
Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
ceo@tricitieschamber.com